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Mother Nature may have one more trick to play on the organizers of the Mavericks surf contest. After failing to deliver the right conditions for a big-wave competition for the second year in a row, the weather gods will likely greet the first-ever Mavericks Festival, held Saturday in lieu of the contest, with steady rain and gusts of wind, forecasters say.

"It does not look like the most pleasant of days," said Bob Benjamin of the National Weather Service, which predicts a storm system will douse the coast in the morning, giving way to showers in the afternoon.

But Mavericks Invitational, the team organizing the festival, is optimistic that people will still turn out for the event and have a good time. It will be held rain or shine on the grounds of the Oceano Hotel &amp; Spa in Princeton-by-the-Sea.

"Everyone's really stoked to have this event, especially with the first-ever Mavericks Awards," said festival spokeswoman Jessica Banks. "Spirits are really high for Saturday."

The awards recognize this season's top achievements at the Mavericks surf break in several categories, including the 5150 Award for the most "insane" wave of the year. Those honors, and other presentations on the history of Mavericks, will be accompanied by surfing highlights on a big-screen television.

Former Oakland A's star Eric Byrnes will emcee the festival, which will also feature food and live performances by bands Dank Jenkins, Bar Fight and The Expendables. There will also be a ramp for those who bring their skateboards and helmets. Alcohol will not be served on festival grounds, though it will be available at nearby bars and restaurants.

Half Moon Bay Brewing Co. will open early at 10 a.m. with a special menu, said general manager Mike Laffen. The restaurant will be busy, though exactly how busy depends on the weather. "It should be a fun deal," Laffen said.

Princeton-by-the-Sea will be closed to most vehicle traffic. Parking will be available to the north at Half Moon Bay Airport. Tickets -- $25 in advance and $35 at the gate -- are still available online at www.mavericksinvitational.com or in person at Mavericks Surf Shop at Pillar Point Harbor.